Related Topics
From Respiratory System
Vestibular Folds (False Vocal Cords)
Protect vocal cords.
1. Overview
The vestibular folds, commonly referred to as the false vocal cords, are paired mucosal structures located within the larynx. Unlike the true vocal cords (vocal folds), they are not directly involved in sound production but serve important protective and structural functions in the airway. The vestibular folds form the upper boundary of the laryngeal ventricle and play a key role in airway protection during swallowing.
2. Location
The vestibular folds are situated in the supraglottic region of the larynx, specifically:
Above the true vocal cords (vocal folds)
Extending from the thyroid cartilage anteriorly to the arytenoid cartilages posteriorly
Forming the lateral walls of the laryngeal vestibule
Each fold is covered by mucosa and lies just above its corresponding vocal fold, separated by the laryngeal ventricle, a small recess between the two sets of folds.
3. Structure
Vestibular folds are composed of:
Mucosa: Covered by respiratory epithelium (pseudostratified ciliated columnar epithelium) or stratified squamous epithelium depending on location and use
Connective tissue: Contains fibroelastic tissue and the vestibular ligament, though lacking the vocalis muscle found in true vocal cords
Glands and lymphoid tissue: Rich in mucous glands and sometimes lymphoid aggregates, contributing to local immune defense
They do not vibrate during phonation but can come together to aid in glottic closure under certain conditions (e.g., straining, coughing).
4. Function
While the vestibular folds are not essential for speech, they serve several important roles:
Airway protection: Prevent food or liquid from entering the trachea during swallowing by helping to close the laryngeal inlet
Support glottic closure: Aid in forceful closure of the glottis during activities like coughing, sneezing, lifting heavy objects (Valsalva maneuver)
Mucous secretion: Help moisten and protect the true vocal cords and underlying airway
5. Physiological Role(s)
In addition to their anatomical and mechanical functions, vestibular folds contribute to:
Reflex actions: Act as a trigger point for the laryngeal cough reflex when foreign particles contact their mucosa
Reservoir for lymphoid tissue: May participate in immune surveillance through mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT)
Airway sealing: Provide a second line of defense after the epiglottis to prevent aspiration during swallowing
6. Clinical Significance
Laryngitis and Edema
Inflammation can involve the vestibular folds, leading to:
Swelling (edema)
Voice changes
Airway narrowing
Though not essential for phonation, edema of the false cords may still contribute to hoarseness and discomfort.
False Vocal Cord Hypertrophy
Can occur due to:
Chronic inflammation
Compensatory use (e.g., in vocal cord paralysis)
Results in a harsh, strained voice as false cords attempt to vibrate or compress the airway during speech. Managed with voice therapy or surgery.
Vestibular Fold Masses
Benign or malignant lesions (e.g., cysts, papillomas, carcinomas) may arise from the vestibular folds, presenting with:
Dysphonia (voice changes)
Airway obstruction
Foreign body sensation
Diagnosis via laryngoscopy; treatment depends on pathology.
Role in Vocal Cord Dysfunction (VCD)
During episodes of paradoxical vocal cord movement, vestibular folds may be misused or co-activated. This can lead to inspiratory stridor, especially during exercise or stress, and is often misdiagnosed as asthma.
Surgical Landmark
In procedures involving the larynx (e.g., microlaryngoscopy or tumor excision), the vestibular folds help guide surgeons to deeper structures while avoiding injury to the true vocal cords.
Did you know? Your nose helps filter out dust, dirt, and allergens from the air you breathe.